Nearly $1.2 Million Electric Project Planned In Smithfield

SMITHFIELD, N.C. – Continued residential growth is putting additional demand on Smithfield’s electric system, prompting the Town Council to approve a nearly $1.2 million circuit expansion designed to maintain reliable power and avoid overloading the existing system.

The council approved the Kellie Drive Extended Circuit project during its Aug. 18 meeting.

Public Utilities Director Ted Credle said the additional circuit is needed to keep the existing circuit from becoming further burdened as development continues in the area.

Without the additional capacity, Credle said heavy demand could potentially create conditions requiring rolling blackouts during peak usage periods.

The new circuit will help provide reliable electrical service to an area that includes 549 new home sites.

Smithfield previously hired an engineering firm to design the project, with the town purchasing materials separately and contracting out the construction labor.

The total project budget is $1,177,874.

Smithfield had previously budgeted $600,000 for the circuit extension.

To cover the remaining cost, the council authorized up to $577,874 from the town’s Electric Fund balance.